An increase in the demand for non-dairy has led to the rise in the availability of any new forms of milk. However, what to choose between these new milk forms is what causes confusion. One such concern is choosing between cashew milk versus flax milk.
If you too are facing a similar choice read this blog right to the end as I will delve into the details of the differences and benefits of cashew and flax milk.
PEOPLE ALSO READ
| Walnut milk versus Cashew Milk – Which one is a Better Choice? |
Differences & Benefits of Cashew Milk Versus Flax Milk
Let’s take a quick overview of cashew milk and flax milk through a comparative table below.
BASE INGREDIENTS | |
Cashew milk
Cashews & Water |
Flax milk
Flaxseeds & Water |
TASTE | |
Cashew milk
Creamy & Rich |
Flax milk
Creamy & Earthy |
DAILY INTAKE | |
Cashew milk
1 cup |
Flax milk
1 cup |
CALORIES | |
Cashew milk
24* |
Flax milk
48.77* |
FAT CONTENT | |
Cashew milk
1.99 g* |
Flax milk
3.25 g* |
PROTEIN CONTENT | |
Cashew milk
1.01 g* |
Flax milk
2.17 g* |
CALCIUM CONTENT | |
Cashew milk
11- 451 mg* |
Flax milk
24- 450 mg* |
RECOMMENDED TIME | |
Cashew milk
Morning or Bedtime |
Flax milk
Morning or Bedtime |
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT | |
Cashew milk
Positive |
Flax milk
Positive |
VEGAN FRIENDLINESS | |
Cashew milk
Yes |
Flax milk
Yes |
ORAL HEALTH OUTCOME | |
Cashew milk
Very Good |
Flax milk
Very Good |
TUMMY HEALTH OUTCOME | |
Cashew milk
Good |
Flax milk
Very Good |
BODILY COOLING EFFECT | |
Cashew milk
Good |
Flax milk
Good |
BODILY HYDRATION EFFECT | |
Cashew milk
Good |
Flax milk
Good |
ADDITIVES | |
Cashew milk
Cinnamon, honey |
Flax milk
Vanilla, honey |
*Source: USDA; Quantity defined is 1 cup
I believe that this table has helped you gain knowledge about cashew milk and flax milk. If not, then let’s move ahead and take a look at the brief explanation of all the chosen aspects for more insights.
What Are the Ingredients That Constitute Cashew Milk and Flax Milk?
Cashew milk is non-dairy milk that can be prepared at home by using soaked cashews. These are ground and blended using some water. You may not need to strain the mixture as these nuts completely blend with water but you can filter it if you want to. This off- white liquid obtained is our very own cashew milk.
Flax milk is another non- dairy milk that is a perfect addition to smoothies and porridges. It is obtained from overnight soaked flax seeds that are finely crushed and blended with water in a mixer for a minute. Then, this mixture is filtered to strain away the undissolved pulp. The light- brownish coloured filtrate that we get is flax milk.
Cashew Milk Vs Flax Milk Taste & Textural Differences
If you are confused between cashew milk vs flax milk taste, then both have a somewhat earthy flavor, smooth texture and thick consistency.
Flax milk is derived from flaxseeds, hence it is gelatinous as well as slimy in nature. This beverage has a creamy and gummy consistency. Cashew milk is delicious plant-based milk that is very creamy, nutty and rich in taste.
Cashew Milk Versus Flax Milk- How Much Should We Consume?
So the most asked question is, how much quantity is suggested for the consumption of cashew milk and flax milk?
The suggested daily consumption of both these products is only 1 cup. But, if you want to have more or add in your smoothies, then you can have a maximum of 2 cups.
Cashew Milk Versus Flax Milk- How Much Calories Do They Contain?
Nowadays, people are becoming more health- conscious and watching their calorie intake. If you are planning to include low calorie foods in your diet that has many health benefits, then cashew milk is more preferable to flax milk.
When the calories of both cashew milk and flax milk are compared, it is observed that the calories of cashew milk are nearly half that of flax milk. However, you can opt for flax milk too as its calories are not as high as dairy milk.
Cashew Milk Versus Flax Milk- What is the Difference in Fat content?
People who want to consume less fat-containing foods are preferring non-dairy plant-based products rather than dairy milk. Hence, the demand, availability and production of plant-based milk are rising.
If we compare the total fats of both these products, flax milk possesses higher fats than cashew milk. However, both cashew milk and flax milk contain a good amount of good unsaturated omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that are beneficial for a healthy heart. Hence, they can both be included in your everyday diet plan for the benefits they hold.
Checking Out the Protein Content Of Cashew Milk Versus Flax Milk
Cashew milk and flaxseed milk both are non-dairy milks that offer many health benefits and are rich in many essential nutrients. However, their homemade versions lag behind dairy milk in protein levels, which is why some branded versions are packed with extra proteins
When protein content of both these products is compared, then it is observed that flax milk enjoys more than double the protein levels of cashew milk. Hence, to meet the daily requirements of protein, it is recommended to have good sources of protein along with cashew milk or flax milk.
Cashew Milk Versus Flax Milk For Calcium Needs
Another frequently asked question is, in terms of calcium, which is better: cashew milk or flax milk? Calcium and vitamin D are fortified in the commercial versions of these products as their homemade versions lack it.
The calcium content of cashew milk and flax milk differs from brand to brand. You can check it out in the nutritional labels of the brand you are opting.
Cashew Milk Versus Flax Milk- What Is Their Impact on the Environment?
Both cashew milk and flax milk can be considered as environmentally-friendly products, unlike dairy milks because of their source of origin. Both these products use fewer resources like water, energy, and agrochemicals and their land use is also much lesser than that needed for dairy milk production.
The emission of greenhouse gasses by these products is also the least when compared to dairy milk production. Hence, all in all, their effect on the planet is positive.
Cashew Milk Vs Flax Milk- Which One’s Better for Vegans?
Cashew milk and flax milk both are plant-based products derived from cashews and flaxseeds respectively. Hence, they are considered Vegan-friendly products.
People who want to switch to a vegan diet or consume lactose- and gluten-free products are now choosing non-dairy milk rather than dairy milk for consumption. These can be used in recipes like curries, porridge, smoothies etc. Cashew milk can also be used in making vegan cheese.
What Is the Right Time to Consume Cashew Milk Versus Flax Milk?
Flax milk and Cashew milk can be consumed either in the morning for better digestion of the nutty milks or before bedtime as they promote sleep.
They can be used as such or added to recipes. While cashew milk can be used in baking, flax milk is an amazing plant-based milk that can be used as an egg substitute in desserts like meringues.
How Do Cashew Milk and Flax Milk Benefit Our Oral Health?
Cashew milk and flax milk are rich in essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals including vitamin B1, magnesium, and phosphorus which are essential for good oral health.
Their commercial packs are power-packed with calcium and vitamin D that help in strengthening teeth and jawbones.
What Is the Effect of Cashew Milk Vs Flax Milk on Digestion?
Cashew milk and Flax milk work well on digestion. They contain fiber which helps in water reabsorption and eases washroom habits.
Both these products also boast essential vitamins and minerals like iron, and potassium which further aids the digestion process.
How does Cashew Milk Vs Flax Milk Help in Body Cooling?
Being a certified nutritionist, I have been asked by many people about cashew milk vs flax milk benefits for bodily cooling. Both products work incredibly in bodily cooling as they both contain 80-90% of water.
Also, they will give a supercooling effect when they are frozen and then used in making smoothies. These both can also be used in making ice creams.
Which Does A Better Job at Hydrating the Body: Cashew Milk or Flax Milk
Cashew milk and Flax milk both are surprisingly delicious plant-based products. These two contain water as their primary ingredient and hence, they are perfect refreshing drinks for the summer season.
Cashew milk also contains magnesium and potassium, whereas flax milk has minerals like phosphorus. These maintain the electrolyte balance and optimum level of water in the body, thus helping in hydrating the body.
What Are the Flavoring Agents for Cashew Milk Versus Flax Milk?
Homemade cashew milk is delicious as such but if you want to add some flavors to it, then you can pair it with honey, vanilla extract, agave nectar or maple syrup. You can also use a dash of sea salt and cinnamon to make it savoury.
Flax milk, on the other hand, is not that delicious on its own. Hence, you can make it more palatable with add-ins like maple syrup, agave syrup, honey or dates. You can also use vanilla extract and spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
From the above discussions, it can be concluded that for overall nutritional profile, cashew milk does have an advantage over Flax milk if lower calories and fats are your preference. However, if you have nut allergy, then ytry flaxseed milk instead.
I hope that this blog gave you more clarity and addressed all your doubts and queries related to both these products. If you have any further query or suggestion, then drop your views in the comments section below.